The World Bank, through the ACRESAL (Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes) Project, has disbursed $2.525 million (₦3.8 billion) in non-interest loans to support climate-smart agriculture across 101 communities in Yobe State.
Each community received $25,000 (₦38.3 million) in a Community Revolving Fund (CRF), following a successful pilot phase involving 10 communities.
The initiative, coordinated by Shehu Mohammed, aims to empower 482 farmer and community groups comprising over 7,340 direct beneficiaries—4,857 men and 2,483 women.
The funds will drive sustainable farming practices, enhance economic activities, and promote resilience to climate change across all 17 LGAs of the state.
The CRF is aligned with World Bank objectives to reverse environmental degradation and strengthen livelihoods in climate-vulnerable regions.
With a 65% recovery rate recorded during the pilot, the World Bank approved a scale-up. The Yobe government, under Gov. Mai Mala Buni, alongside the Ministry of Environment and local leaders, has been credited for the program’s success.
Environment Commissioner, Sidi Karasuwa urged beneficiaries to follow approved business plans and ensure prompt repayment to sustain the revolving mechanism.
The project, he said, is more than financial aid—it’s a transformative tool for agricultural resilience and rural development.
